System76 is a Denver, Colorado-based American computer manufacturer. They are specializing in the sale of Linux powered laptops, desktops, and servers. Last year System76 announced two Intel laptops with Coreboot, which as an alternative to proprietary BIOS using Intel 10th Gen CPUs. Now, System76 updated its Linux workstations line and ship with the latest AMD chips for CPU-intensive workloads. But how much of a difference can 64 cores AMD CPU make?
A high-end computer like this is handy for doing tasks such as
- Compiling and building large apps
- Running tons of Virtual machines and Linux containers
- Virtual LAB
- HD/4K Video and photo editing
- Video transcoding
- AI and ML or game development and more
One can compile the Linux kernel in 24 seconds. That is just insane:
System76 Announces AMD Threadripper Linux Workstations
Most big vendors, such as Lenovo or Dell’s workstations, still comes with Intel Xeons. So individuals or companies who want to order AMD based workstation can look into System76 offering. Let us see the hardware specifications.
System76 AMD Threadripper – Hardware specification for
- CPU: 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen Threadripper
- Operating System: Pop!_OS or Ubuntu Linux
- GPU: Up to 2 x AMD or NVIDIA cards
- RAM: Up to 256 GB Quad Channel DDR4 @ 3000 MHz
- Storage: Up to 46 TB, M.2 NVMe and 2.5″ SATA drives
- Rear Ports: 5 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A (red), 4 x USB 2.0, 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, 1 x RJ-45 LAN
- Rear Audio: 5 x Audio Jacks
- Networking: Gigabit Ethernet w/ built-in Intel Wireless-AC (a/b/g/n/ac/ax) with Bluetooth 5.0
- Power Supply: 1000W 80+ Certified (90% or greater power efficiency)
Such a powerful CPU and GPU based computer needs better temperature management. This workstation provides more reliable thermals and cooling using a large duct to separate the CPU from the GPU. Copper piping draws heat away from the CPU. Fans then funnel hot air out the exhaust ports and bring in cold air to replace it.
Pricing
The cost starting at USD $3798, and one can customize it as per their needs. For ordering and other information, see their website here.
Conclusion
System76 has a lovely customer support and help entry-level developers and Linux enthusiasts to order AMD based workstation. AMD CPUs are less buggy as compared to Intel Xeons and cheaper too. Yet, you get outstanding performance out of 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen Threadripper. Of course, you can build such a workstation using the DIY route also. It will be cheaper, but you have to spend time building, debugging, and supporting the system yourself. If your time is important and you need both hardware and software support, go with System76’s offering. Would you buy/order or DIY such a workstation? Let us know in the comments.
A technology enthusiast who loves to create and break things. Love to work on Linux, technology, and Computers. I am a CyberSecurity aficionado, and wannabe wildlife Photographer constantly learning and experiencing new things.